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The tariff war is continuing with the US proposing tariffs on 60 economies. On June 2, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) proposed tariffs of up to 12.5% on major US trading partners. Some countries that could be affected include China, Mexico, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and India. The USTR will propose the tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 following a March investigation. The probe into forced labor laws led to a plan to enforce a 10% levy on certain countries and a 12.5% levy on others. With the back-and-forth on levies over the last year, this could add another layer of strain to the shipping industry.
A reason behind the Trump Administration’s proposal is the failure of trading partners to ban imports produced with forced labor. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greener stated that the failure to address the forced labor practices “creates a dynamic where American workers are forced to compete globally on an unlevel playing field.” Trump is also proposing tariffs as an alternative means of imposing levies following the striking down of his emergency tariffs. In February 2026, the Supreme Court ruled that Trump’s International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs were lawful. Along with bringing manufacturing back to the US, the Section 301 tariffs are also a leverage for creating trade deals.
If the Trump administration enforces the Section 301 tariffs, the cost of importing into the US could increase. It’s essential to note that the levies will target nearly 99% of US trading partners. In addition to affecting the importer, different parts of the supply chain could further raise costs, including for the customer. Domestic shipping to the final destination may also have increased costs. Trading partners, including the EU, have commented against the Section 301 tariffs, with a spokesperson calling them “unjustified”. The USTR notes that the levies will have exemptions, including imports already subject to Section 232 tariffs.
While tariffs may seem alarming, they should not pause cargo movement. Shippers should, however, take the proper steps to prevent disruptions such as delays, monetary loss, and cargo loss. It can be beneficial to speak with a customs broker when deciding whether to import into the US. Brokers are licensed individuals or companies that coordinate the clearance of shipments through customs. In the US, they ensure compliance with CBP (Customs and Border Protection). Brokers do this by offering services such as providing paperwork, filing entries, calculating duties, and more. Reach A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9456 to learn about our services for clearing your cargo upon US entry.
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